MondayApr052021
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagicThe Weeknd is urging his fans to pay attention to the devastation rocking Ethiopia, which has resulted in mass casualties and destruction of homes.
The "Blinding Lights" singer on Sunday shared a black and white infographic announcing that he plans to part with a considerable amount of his money to help ongoing relief efforts.
"My heart breaks for my people of Ethiopia as innocent civilians ranging from small children to the elderly are being senselessly murdered and entire villages are being displaced out of fear and destruction," The Weeknd expressed.
The singer, born Abel Tesfaye, previously revealed that both of his parents are natives of Ethiopia and left the country in the 80s to build a new life in Canada.
"I will be donating $1 million to provide 2 million meals through the United Nations World Food Programme and encourage those who can to please give as well," he continued, who hoped his announcement will "encourage those who can to please give as well."
The announcement comes as growing scrutiny is directed toward Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who is accused of advancing a dangerous form of nationalism and indefinitely postponing elections.
In addition, the government is accused of attempting genocide of ethnic Tigrayans after invading the Tigray region last November and announcing "full control" of the regional capital, Mekelle, weeks later.
Ethiopia's government has since denied claims of genocide or ethnic cleansing.
By Megan Stone
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